Penningtons Manches Cooper launches in Antibes

UK-headquartered law firm Penningtons Manches Cooper has set up in Antibes in the south of France to better access the Mediterranean yacht sector.

The venture will be led by partner Christophe Hunkeler, who heads the firm’s office in Paris, and Dani Allan, Paris partner and a dual-qualified English/French lawyer.

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The new hub will not only provide opportunities in yachting and associated businesses but will complement the Paris office in naval architect and construction disputes and court-led investigations.

“Responding to client demand and pursuing organic growth through building upon our core sector strengths is integral to the firm’s strategy,” said Hunkeler. “The yacht market in France has experienced impressive growth in the last decade, in tandem with the huge growth seen internationally.”

Sarah Allan, who leads the firm’s specialist yacht team said: “We believe it makes a real difference being in situ and look forward to the opportunities that this expansion brings for us and our clients.”

CEO Helen Drayton added: “Our international strategy is to be where our clients need us. A physical presence in Antibes consolidates our ability to service our clients in the yacht and broader maritime industries across Europe, from Piraeus to Madrid and Paris, and will also play to our strengths in other sectors, notably in private wealth, and also real estate, corporate, employment, immigration and insurance.”